Yes with the version 1.6 firmware, the cam will still be "shaky" at 12x. Depends on how steady the operator's hand is. I can hold it at 12x steadily - that means no more "rotating along the axis along the length of the camera" / yaw, or left right shaking. But... not for too long. My arm needs to be stabilized too - I have to put my elbow into my ribcage. Two arms are better than one for steadying the cam.

Try turning OFF the stabilizer - then you really appreciate it! ;) ;)

I assure you that the 1.6 firmware onwards is the only revision which improves the anti camera shake capabilities: the factory default 1.4 and the firmware 1.5 available at Panasonic Service Centers have pathetic anti shake - they are only good for up to 5x or 6x.

Re: "...available at Panasonic Service Centers have pathetic anti shake - they are only good for up to 5x or 6x"

Trouble is, I'd have to send the cam back to Sydney, Australia. I don't think Pana will pay for the shipping again. It'll cost like $400 Canadian for a return ticket. I wished that Pana would have everything right before they release something to the unsuspecting consumer. But then again, I doubt Sony would even admit there is a problem, if there were. Anyways, Pana is still #1 in my books, followed by Sony. (Geez, I hope I don't get taken to court for my public opinions.)

Now let's sit still and wait for a couple more months to see if the PV-DV953 really is the MX5000!

I've never had any 1394 Firewire problems with dropped frames,
pertaining to the old original posts in regard to firmware updates,
and I haven't *noticed* any serious issues with the OIS at or
above 6X zoom.